What are some neurologic conditions that may be seen in pregnant women?

Because many neurologic conditions and diseases cause severe illness, only a few conditions are seen in pregnancy. The most common conditions in pregnancy include the following:

Migraine headache

Epilepsy

Multiple sclerosis

Some neurologic diseases have little or no effect on pregnancy, while others can greatly increase the risks for pregnancy complications and maternal and fetal illness. Likewise, pregnancy can affect some neurologic conditions, but not others.

Care of pregnant women with neurologic conditions often involves a team of healthcare providers. Women can increase their chances for a healthy pregnancy by getting early prenatal care and working with their healthcare providers in the management of their disease.